By Shire Abdi - Reporter
Somalia, 3 July 2026 – Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said on Thursday that Israel would not establish a presence in Somali territory, reaffirming his government’s commitment to protecting sovereignty.
Speaking at an event in Mogadishu honouring organizers and workers involved in events marking Somalia’s independence celebrations, Mohamud said Somalia would not accept any foreign presence that undermines national interests.
“They have no place in our country. We are Somalia, and the world recognizes us as Somalia,” Mohamud said. “Israel will not succeed in settling in our territory.”
He said Somalia would reject any foreign influence or presence that could threaten national security, unity or political stability.
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The president said the government’s position reflected the views of most Somalis, adding that public sentiment remained firmly aligned with protecting Somalia’s sovereignty.
“I strongly believe the majority of Somalis share this position,” he said.
Somalia has repeatedly reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and opposing any external actions it views as threats to national unity and stability.